Video shows Englewood jewelry store thief who escaped through sewer system

ENGLEWOOD (WABC) -- Police in New Jersey are searching for a suspect who robbed a jewelry store, then escaped through a sewer system.

First, he posed as a shopper, checking out merchandise at B&M Jewelers in Englewood Saturday afternoon.

But instead of splurging on something special, he whipped out a wrench and smashed the displays, grabbing two cases of rings.

But when it's time to go, the store's owner who's behind a protective glass electronically locks the door.

"When he realized he couldn't get out, he went back and got a wrench and smashed the front door out. In the process, cut himself pretty severely. He ran out and a Good Samaritan chased after him down Bennett Road, he dropped the tool, and went out of sight for a little bit," a police officer said.

Officers chased the suspect into the sewer system a few blocks away, but he escaped in that below ground maze.

But not before one officer recognized him, saying it's 24-year-old Barris Simpson.

"It wasn't like he ran. He just walked like he belonged," said William Trott, a witness.

Police say Simpson is often at area homeless shelters.

And he has a pretty noticeable letter "B" tattooed on his face.

"It's a shame that people do this to earn their living," a resident said.

"With everything that's going on in Baltimore come on, you're doing this to your own neighborhood? And when you steal from your neighborhood, where is everybody going to shop?" said Alan Mitchell, a resident.

Police say if you see the suspect, don't approach him, and call 911.

They're confident he'll turn up soon.

Anyone having any information about this robbery or Simpson's whereabouts can call the Crime Stoppers line at 1-844-466-6789 or the Englewood Detective Bureau at 201-568-4875.